Our Dentist Near You Educates Patients on Oral Cancer Signs
Oral cancer is a serious condition that affects thousands of people every year, but the good news is that early detection can significantly improve outcomes. As a trusted local dentist in Kalispell, Dr. Evan Olson is committed to helping you stay proactive about your oral health. Recognizing the early signs of oral cancer can make all the difference, and we’re here to guide you through what to look for and when to seek professional care.
If you’re looking for an appointment, contact our dental office near you today by calling (406) 752-1107. We’re welcoming new patients from all across the region.
What Is Oral Cancer and Why Does Early Detection Matter?
Oral cancer refers to cancers that develop in the mouth or throat, including the lips, tongue, gums, inner cheeks, roof or floor of the mouth, and throat. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 54,000 new cases of oral and oropharyngeal cancer are diagnosed annually in the United States. When caught early, the survival rate for oral cancer is around 80 to 90%, but this drops significantly if the cancer progresses to later stages.
Early detection is critical as it allows for less invasive treatments and better outcomes. At Alpine Family Dental, our dental team and dentist perform thorough oral cancer screenings during routine dental exams to catch potential issues before they become serious. But you can also play a vital role by knowing what to look for at home.
Early Signs of Oral Cancer to Watch For
Persistent Sores or Ulcers
One of the most common early signs of oral cancer is a sore or ulcer in the mouth that doesn’t heal within two weeks. These sores may appear on the lips, tongue, gums, or inner cheeks and may be painful or painless. Unlike canker sores, which typically resolve on their own, oral cancer sores persist and may grow over time.
- What you can do: If you notice a sore that lingers for more than two weeks, don’t ignore it. Contact our dental office in Kalispell to schedule a routine dental appointment.
Red or White Patches
Unusual red or white patches in the mouth, also known as erythroplakia (red) or leukoplakia (white), can be early indicators of oral cancer. These patches may appear on the tongue, gums, or inner cheeks and often have an irregular texture or feel.
- What you can do: Any unusual patches in your mouth should be examined by our Kalispell dentist. We use advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate these areas during your routine dental appointments.
Lumps or Thickening Tissue
A lump, bump, or thickened area in the mouth or throat that doesn’t go away could signal oral cancer. These growths may feel hard or irregular and can appear on the lips, gums, or other soft tissues.
Difficulty Swallowing or Chewing
If you experience persistent difficulty swallowing, chewing, or moving your jaw or tongue, it could be a sign of oral cancer. You might feel like something is stuck in your throat or notice a change in how your teeth fit together.
- What you can do: These symptoms warrant immediate attention. Call our dentist in Kalispell at (406) 752-1107 to book a screening.
Chronic Sore Throat or Hoarseness
A sore throat or hoarseness that lasts for weeks, especially without a clear cause like a cold, may indicate a problem in the throat or mouth. This is particularly concerning if accompanied by other symptoms like ear pain or a lump in the neck.
Unexplained Bleeding
Unexplained bleeding in the mouth, whether from the gums, tongue, or other areas, is another red flag. While bleeding can result from gum disease or trauma, persistent or recurring bleeding should be investigated.
Numbness or Pain
Numbness, tingling, or unexplained pain in the mouth, lips, or face could indicate nerve involvement related to oral cancer. These sensations may come and go or persist over time.
- What you can do: Don’t ignore these sensations. Contact our dentist near you at (406) 752-1107 to schedule an oral cancer screening.
Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
Knowing and understanding the risk factors for oral cancer can help you take preventive steps. While anyone can develop oral cancer, certain factors can increase your risk:
- Tobacco Use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes, or using chewing tobacco significantly increases your risk.
- Heavy Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol use, especially when combined with tobacco, heightens the likelihood of oral cancer.
- HPV Infection: The human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly HPV-16, is linked to oropharyngeal cancers.
- Sun Exposure: Prolonged sun exposure without lip protection can increase the risk of lip cancer.
- Age and Gender: Oral cancer is more common in people over 40 and men.
- Poor Diet: A diet low in fruits and vegetables may contribute to a higher risk.
How Dentists Detect Oral Cancer
At Alpine Family Dental, we take oral cancer screenings seriously. During your routine dental exam, our Kalispell dentist uses a combination of visual inspections, physical examinations, and advanced diagnostic tools to check for abnormalities. Here’s what you can expect:
- Visual Exam: We inspect your mouth, throat, and neck for sores, patches, or lumps.
- Physical Palpation: We gently feel the tissues in your mouth and neck to detect any unusual growths.
- Advanced Technology: We may use special lights or dyes to highlight abnormal tissues.
- Biopsy Referral: If we find anything suspicious, we’ll refer you to a specialist for a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
To schedule an appointment, contact Alpine Family Dental at (406) 752-1107.
Visit Our Dental Office Near You Today!
Your health is too important to leave to chance. Schedule your oral cancer screening with our dentists near you today and take the first step toward peace of mind. Call us at (406) 752-1107 to book your appointment now. Let’s work together to keep your smile healthy and vibrant!